Tropical Cyclone Jude made landfall in Mozambique on March 10, 2025, bringing severe winds and heavy rainfall. Preliminary data suggests fewer than 5,000 affected, yet projections indicate up to 275,000 could be impacted. The Shelter Cluster is coordinating responses and conducting needs assessments, with efforts focused on effective information exchange and support activities in affected provinces.
On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure area formed in the southwestern Indian Ocean, developing into Tropical Cyclone “JUDE”. This cyclone made landfall on March 10, striking the Mossuril district of Nampula province with wind gusts reaching 195 km/h and rainfall exceeding 250 mm in 24 hours. The storm weakened to a tropical storm as it moved towards northeastern Zambezia province, affecting the Gilé and Pebane districts, and is expected to exit the continent on March 13, leaving heavy rainfall and flood alerts in multiple provinces including Nampula, Zambezia, Tete, Manica, and Sofala.
The preliminary impact data released by the government indicates significant information gaps which impede accurate assessments of the situation. Initial reports suggest fewer than 5,000 people affected by the storm, while estimates from government and humanitarian sources project that the number could range between 120,000 and 275,000 individuals impacted by Tropical Storm Jude.
The Shelter Cluster has initiated several activities in response to the situation. It has mapped its regional capacity, identifying partners with a physical presence, delivery capabilities, and preparedness actions necessary for an effective response. Close coordination is in progress with local authorities to facilitate the exchange of timely information and assessments.
Additionally, partners within the provinces are prepared to conduct needs assessments as soon as conditions improve. The Shelter Cluster’s coordination team is set to deploy to Quelimane for various activities. A comprehensive estimate regarding the number of people in need, target populations, response activities, and required funding is underway and has been submitted to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) for the Flash Appeal update.
The situation following Tropical Cyclone Jude indicates significant challenges, including substantial information gaps and varying estimates of those affected. Immediate coordination efforts by the Shelter Cluster highlight their commitment to ensure effective support and preparedness in collaboration with local authorities. Continued assessments and resource mobilization are crucial as the impact of this storm unfolds.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
